A Nasty Business - Your Comments

1. 'Those MBS traders cost my firm dear last year. I am based in Scotland (us labourers are cheaper up here), worked hard all year, and all I got was a 1.2% pay rise. After tax, that won't even pay for lunch for the month! There's also a recruitment freeze on, so we're all working under even more pressure. Will I leave ? Probably not - I know I'm a mug, but I still believe in loyalty'.

2. 'We just have to appreciate that some people have more ambition than others. And its this ambition that will drive some to do what it takes to climb to the top'.

3. 'Everyone likes a place where they feel they belong and can contribute meaningfully, but don't expect human emotions or gratitude from a corporation. The best you can hope for is a good team to work with, decent working conditions and possibly a few friendships that last beyond your tenure at work'.

4. 'Nice guys do get crapped on'.

5. 'The only unique thing about this lament is that it's not unique. Just remember, life isn't always fair. You are gonna get screwed along the way. The treasuries are in Heaven'.

6. 'We're even more stupid if we think that honest hard work alone gets you anywhere'.

7. 'I'm more than ever convinced that you need to be a real jerk to survive in this industry'.

A Nasty Business - An Open Letter From A Back Office Professional